Flat top vs. Shaved head

[z_ya]

Not talking about hair styles here, talking about what would be better for a stock '78 280Z with the N47 head. Would i get a better compression from just dropping in 82-83 ZX flat tops or shaving the head down as much as i can? I just want a nice street performance with track in mind.

Thanks guys.

[LeonV]

I just want a nice street performance with track in mind.

Then don't do either of those. Give it a real tune-up and drive.

Compression ratio: it's one of those things that guys love to put on a pedestal. Don't worry if compression is 8.5:1 or 9.5:1, it's not going to matter much in the end if you don't design the system with everything in mind, not just that oh-so magical compression ratio.

[Pop's Z]

Fwiw, Leon is right. I have an '83 ZX F54 flat top block w/ an N42 head with 10.5-1 comp. ratio, but w/o the stage 2 Delta cam, massaged chambers and ports, and a header the higher comp. would not be very effective. With those mods the car is very lively. The only drawback is the need for 91 octane fuel...no real hardship for me as the car is not a daily driver.

Cheers, Mike